The Good Friday service began with the orchestra playing “What Wondrous Love Is This,” followed by “The Old Rugged Cross.” The congregation sang hymns together, as the choir and orchestra assembled to present a short program directed by Gary Riler.

The choir began with “Ancient of Days Processional,” telling the story of the last week of Jesus’s life on earth, which led to the Crucifixion. First, they sang of the excitement and anticipation as the Jewish people sensed the fulfillment of God’s promise to send a Messiah. The song started with “Hosanna, Sing Hosanna” being echoed through the choir, representing Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem. The second choir piece was “How Many Lambs?” referencing Hebrews 10:1. The Law required blood sacrifices year after year. but Jesus provided the final Sacrifice, covering the peoples’ sins for all time.

The program continued with a song remembering the last evening the disciples spent with Jesus. Then they sang, “In the Shadow of the Cross,” with soloist Peter Moberg singing of the impact the Cross has every Christian. While Good Friday was a day of pain and sorrow, it resulted in the greatest triumph. The Good Friday program ended with a powerful version of “Nothing but the Blood.”

Following the special music, Erik Calhoun preached a message taken from Isaiah 53:4-5. He said that before Calvary, mankind was hopeless, helpless, and powerless, but Jesus’ sacrifice on the Cross provided a path to victory over sin and a hope of Heaven. Brother Erik asked the congregation to consider the Cross, and whether it is the center of their lives.

The Resurrection Sunday morning service opened with the orchestra playing “Then Came the Morning.” They concluded with a jubilant “Crown Him King! Medley,” which was followed by a selection of congregational hymns. Then, the Easter program that the choir and orchestra had begun on Good Friday was continued, with the choir singing “All Creation Gives Voice,” a joyful song of worship. Sarah Asaya sang “When They Pierced Your Side,” speaking of Jesus’ death. As the solo ended, the choir sang “How Great Thou Art,” which includes, “And when I think that God His Son not sparing; Sent Him to die, I scarce can take it in.” The choir went on to sing “God So Loved the World.”

The rest of the song selections walked through the enormity of the sacrifice made on Calvary, expressing awe and appreciation. Then the celebration of Jesus’ Resurrection began as the choir sang “Christ the Lord Is Risen Today!” A reprise of “How Great Thou Art” continued into Handel’s “Hallelujah Chorus.” The finale brought the congregation to their feet!

The Easter sermon was given by Darrel Lee. He first read from John 20:24-25, which tells of Thomas, the disciple who would not believe Jesus had risen without seeing for himself. Brother Darrel pointed out that like Thomas, many people are inclined to doubt reports about Jesus. Graciously, Jesus appeared to Thomas and said, “Peace be unto you,” and then Thomas finally believed. Brother Darrel said that each person has encountered Jesus personally or has heard reports from those who have, and must choose whether or not to believe. He encouraged each one to respond to Jesus the same way Thomas did, by acknowledging Him as “My Lord and my God.”